The story of a little boy from Edmonton who is scheduled to undergo life changing surgery on Friday has sparked an outpouring of compassion from across the nation.

The toddler suffers from a lymphatic malformation on his face and requires a surgery that is not available in Canada.

Sarah Deluca says she felt an instant connection when she first heard the story of little Maddox Flynn. Her nephew Liam was also born with a lymphatic malformation.

"Liam has amazed us, every single time he had to go to New York -- he's athletic, strong, has a great attitude and he's a little comedian," she said.

Liam and his family live in Idaho. The doctor that has helped transform his life is the same man who will operate on Maddox.

"He gave us a normal life without a lot of worry, where as before left untreated it could really be damaging," said Liam's parents, Robb and Kate Thompson.

Now, six surgeries later Liam's mass is virtually gone. The only reminder is a red scar on his face. The Thompson family says there are still surgeries ahead and wish they had the same support Maddox has received here at home.

The Thompson's medical bills have added up to more than $80,000.

"It's been a long journey, but it's been worth every mile and every penny. It's a leap of faith," the couple tells CTV.

Deluca says she is still amazed at what the citizens of Edmonton have done to help little Maddox.

"What the community has done for this family it just it really blows me away. It really has made me feel that this is such a special place to live," she said.

Maddox's family has continued to receive donations from generous citizens to help foot the bill.

As of Thursday, the family had received $175,000 in donations.

There have been many small donations made by generous residents, and then there are some businesses and organizations that have donated in the thousands.

One organization even stepped up and committed to flying Maddox and his dad to and from New York.

Following Friday's surgery, Maddox will also have to go back for a second surgery that's booked for September, which will reconstruct parts of his face.

Now that the donations have exceeded the expectations of the family, they have consulted a lawyer who is now handling the trust fund.

With files from Dez Melenka